Manager, Meetings & Events

The Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA) is a prominent trade association based in the Washington, DC area, representing the hearth, patio, and barbecue industry. The association serves as the central hub and advocate for industries that enrich lives by bringing warmth, flavor, and memorable experiences to family gatherings and moments with friends. HPBA champions a diverse range of essential products from cozy fireplaces and efficient heating solutions to sizzling barbecue grills and inviting outdoor living accessories. The impact of this industry is substantial, with over 80 percent of households owning a barbecue grill, highlighting the widespread cultural significance and popularity of outdoor cooking and gathering traditions.

HPBA orchestrates a variety of high-profile events, including board meetings, leadership sessions, industry receptions, and the large-scale national trade show known as HPBExpo. These events serve to strengthen relationships within the industry, foster collaboration, and propel advancement in the hearth, patio, and barbecue sectors. Through meticulously planned gatherings, HPBA creates unforgettable experiences that unite members and industry leaders, enhancing professional connections and shared knowledge.

The Manager of Meetings and Events position at HPBA plays a crucial role in executing this mission by planning and managing the association's extensive portfolio of events. Reporting directly to the President and CEO, this position is responsible for overseeing event logistics, contract negotiations, vendor management, venue sourcing, and providing on-site leadership to ensure seamless event execution. This role demands a high level of organization, relationship-building prowess, and the ability to anticipate and resolve challenges with agility and grace.

Success in this position means excelling at transforming complex, multifaceted event plans into well-structured, executable strategies. The Manager will juggle multiple events at various stages of planning and execution simultaneously—ranging from securing contracts years in advance to handling last-minute changes during on-site event days. This individual will be the dependable, composed problem solver who effectively manages vendor agreements, room blocks, audio-visual specifications, transportation logistics, and speaker needs with professionalism and finesse.

A key element of this role is driving operational excellence through robust budget management and evaluating event outcomes to continually improve HPBA's offerings. Collaboration and communication with internal teams, association leadership, and external event partners are essential to maximizing the quality and value of all events. HPBA offers this role a flexible remote work environment supplemented by required travel to events and regional meetings in the Arlington, Virginia area, with an emphasis on supporting large-scale national conventions and other member-focused experiences.

The ideal candidate will bring a wealth of experience in meeting planning and event management, particularly with national associations or corporate organizations, and a track record of successful contract negotiation with venues and service providers. Proficiency with project management and event software tools, combined with strong interpersonal skills, will empower this Manager to lead impactful and memorable events that embody HPBA's commitment to its membership and the broader industry.

This opportunity is not just a job but a chance to contribute purposefully to the hearth, patio, and barbecue community by delivering events that inspire connection, learning, and professional growth. HPBA fosters a supportive and growth-minded work culture where the Manager of Meetings and Events can expand their skills, take ownership of projects, and actively influence the future of the association's event strategies. Competitive compensation beginning at $75,000 plus a comprehensive benefits package rounds out this compelling career opportunity within a mission-driven organization.